"What took you so long?" I asked, rolling my eyes as I locked the door behind me and walked out. Fatima stood there, looking effortlessly gorgeous.She was dressed to kill: black skintight leather pants that hugged her curves, a see-through grey tank top that showed just enough to turn heads, and black biker boots that made her look like she had just stepped out of a fashion shoot. Her makeup was flawless, with smokey eyes and bold red lipstick that matched her fierce attitude. She had her long, dark hair tied back in a high ponytail, giving her an air of power and danger."I'm only thirty minutes late, geez," she huffed, giving me a once-over. "But damn, you look beautiful. Yummy, even." She smirked as she gave me a playful wink.I laughed, shaking my head. "Thanks, you look hot too. Every guy at that club is going to be drooling all over you."She grinned mischievously. "And I’ll smack every single one of them if they even think about messing up my outfit." She slid into the driver'
“Congratulations, ma’am! You’re four and a half weeks pregnant,” Dr. Shaw, the physician attending to me, said, her face lit up with a wide, genuine smile.I sat frozen in place, my hands gripping the armrests of the chair tightly. “What?” I screeched so loudly that Dr. Shaw winced.Her smile faltered slightly. “You’re pregnant,” she repeated, though the cheerfulness in her voice was now tinged with hesitation, as if she expected me to bolt out of the room.My mind went numb, racing in a hundred directions all at once. Pregnant? How could that be? “But how? This can’t be true. I can’t be pregnant… you don’t understand!”Fatima, standing next to me, let out a long sigh. “Prisca, did you by any chance have... random sex with someone? Maybe an ex-boyfriend or something?”I barely heard her as my mind began to piece things together, trying to make sense of this impossible news. Pregnant? I hadn’t had sex since moving to London. My stomach dropped as realization hit me like a punch to the
**Unknown’s POV**I slipped into the public restroom, double-checking that it was empty before locking the stall door behind me. My senses heightened as I scanned the air, confirming there was no one else around. Satisfied, I pulled out my phone. This was important. I didn’t have the luxury of going through the beta. Not for this.The Alpha’s number was saved under an encrypted contact, one that very few in the pack had access to. The line barely rang before it was answered."Report," came the Alpha's voice, deep and commanding. Even through the phone, I could feel his authority—a presence so powerful that it could make the air itself feel heavier.“Alpha, I’ve got news from England.” My voice was steady, knowing full well that this report was not one to deliver lightly.A long, deep breath came from the other end, and even though I couldn’t see him, I knew his patience was wearing thin. “I don’t have time for riddles, warrior. Speak.”I swallowed hard, cutting straight to the point. “
I didn’t know if I was being paranoid or just losing my mind, but a bad feeling was gnawing at me—a very bad feeling. It was as if he were lurking just outside my door, and that sense of dread had me packing my bags. At first, I tried to brush it off, dismissing it as just a little nudge in my gut. But when I woke up today, that nudge had escalated to a full-blown push, screaming for my attention.My heart raced, sweat coating my forehead as I shoved clothes into my suitcase. I had called Fatima, telling her that my mother had suffered a stroke in Italy and that I needed to rush to the hospital. She hadn’t questioned me too much, thankfully, as I rambled through my excuses. I hated lying to her, but the truth—that I could sense my crazy hybrid husband nearby—was something I couldn’t share.I didn’t have much to pack, so it didn’t take long to finish. I had already taken a warm shower around 6 a.m., and now, at 8 a.m., I made my way to the living room with my bags. My heart felt like it
“I am not going anywhere with you!” I exclaimed, my eyes wide. After everything I had endured, I couldn’t just give it all up without a fight. He groaned, running a frustrated hand through his tousled hair. “I thought you didn’t want me to kill your friend?”“Stop threatening her! Fatima has nothing to do with this! Leave her out of it,” I growled, my anger flaring. The last thing I wanted was for her to be involved in this twisted game.“I wouldn’t have to threaten her if you’d just come with me willingly,” he replied, his tone dripping with boredom as if my defiance was nothing more than an inconvenience.I felt the urge to slap him again, the heat of my anger surging through me. “I’ve built my life here! I have friends, a house, and a job. Why can’t you just stay out of my life without bothering me?” I shot back, my voice tinged with desperation. He stepped closer, his presence overwhelming. “You knew what you were doing when you ran away with my child. You knew it would all end
“Would you let go of me, you brute!” Fatima screamed at Chris, her voice echoing with a mix of anger and fear. When she looked up and saw his glowing eyes and sharp teeth, she screamed even louder before falling silent. Just like that, she fainted in his arms.Panic surged through me as I rushed toward her limp body. “Is she okay? Oh my God, this is bad!” I exclaimed, my heart racing as I felt the beginnings of a panic attack creeping in.“Relax, she’s fine. She just passed out; her breathing is normal,” Jake said, his tone calm as he pulled me away from Fatima and into his arms. For a brief moment, I considered pulling away, but instead, I found myself feeling calm, comfortable, and safe nestled against him. Ugh, stupid hormones! This pregnancy was going to drive me insane.Chris cradled Fatima in his arms, carrying her bridal style toward the SUV parked nearby. I widened my eyes in disbelief. “Hey! Wait...what do you think you’re doing? Where are you taking her?” I asked, confusion
Scotland—a rare and beautiful land where everything felt different. The atmosphere was calmer, the pace of life slower. I marveled at the serenity that hung in the air, from the misty mornings to the quaint cobblestone streets. It was nothing like the bustling, fast-paced chaos of America. Here, it felt like everyone had an unspoken agreement to be patient—with life, with each other. As our car cruised through the city, I watched in awe as a driver waited for a little girl to cross the street, even though he had the right of way. I smiled, appreciating the kindness as we drove by. We were leaving the city, heading towards our pack’s territory, which Jake said was far from any human settlements. I found myself glancing at him in curiosity. I didn’t understand why we had to live so far from civilization—humans weren’t really a threat to us. “Why do we have to live so far from people?” I asked, leaning closer to him as the car bounced along the road.Jake’s answer was brief, but direct
"Nothing..."I was about to finish my statement but she cut me off."Nothing!You expected to see nothing,how expected of you-"she said with sarcasm.I almost rolled my eyes at her petty behavior. It was obvious she wanted to start a fight," I meant I wasn't expecting Avalon to be so big. I am so used to smaller territories than this and this just makes me understand why Jake wanted this for his...I mean our people.""Whatever,just know that the Alpha will be mated to my daughter now and that will make these people hers as well"she grinned widely,proud of her daughter's attempts to steal my man.I laughed out loud which earned me a growl from her "There won't be any mating needed with that daughter of yours especially considering the fact that the Alpha is expecting-" before I could announce my pregnancy to everyone beta Chris quickly pushed me behind him and cleared his throat."Sorry to cut this short but I have to take Prisca straight to her room now,Alphas orders."he said sternly an
The knock on my door came just as I was attempting to gather my thoughts. My heart was still racing from the storm of emotions that had overtaken me last night in the shower. Jake’s possessiveness, his touch, his kiss… it haunted me in ways I didn’t want to admit. I took a deep breath, smoothed my hair, and opened the door. Sophie stood there, her usual warm smile faltering slightly as she studied my face. “Ayla? Are you okay?” “I’m fine,” I lied quickly, plastering on the most convincing smile I could manage. Her brow furrowed, but she didn’t push. “If you say so. But listen, I have a favor to ask. Could you watch the twins tonight? I have a few things I need to take care of, and they’ve been restless lately. They might sleep better with you.” The thought of being with Lily and Logan brought an instant wave of comfort. “Of course,” I said, my smile more genuine this time. “I’d love to.” Sophie’s shoulders relaxed, and she gave me a grateful nod. “Thank you, Ayla. You’re r
I was up early, as always, feeding the twins their breakfast. Lily sat in her highchair, grinning as she smeared oatmeal on her face, while Logan banged his spoon against the table like he was conducting a symphony. “Are you trying to give me a headache, Logan?” I teased, wiping a bit of oatmeal off his cheek. He gurgled in response, and Lily burst into giggles. The morning sunlight filtered through the windows, casting a warm glow over the dining room. I didn’t mind these moments; in fact, I cherished them. Taking care of these little ones felt natural, like I’d been doing it forever. Jake, on the other hand, sat silently at the head of the table, sipping his coffee. His presence filled the room, commanding without trying, but his attention wasn’t on us. He seemed to be lost in his own world. I hesitated as I glanced his way, trying to summon the courage to say what was on my mind. The tension between us had been unbearable since the training field… and that spark. My wolf
The spark haunted me. It was such a small thing—just a brush of hands—but the shock it sent through me lingered, refusing to let me forget. The last time I’d felt anything like that was when I met Ashton. The realization made my stomach churn. It wasn’t possible. Jake had a mate, and I’d had a mate. The universe didn’t just go around handing out second chances like party favors. “Get a grip, Ayla,” I muttered to myself, pacing my room. But the memory of Jake’s gray eyes, wide with confusion, kept replaying in my mind. I couldn’t make sense of it, and the more I thought about it, the more my head spun. I flopped onto the bed, groaning. “Just let it go.” And I decided to do exactly that. I would focus on the twins, settle into this new life, and leave the spark in the past where it belonged. The next morning, I resolved to shake off the weirdness by doing something productive. The pack grounds were alive with activity as I stepped outside, the crisp air invigorating me. I’
I was starting to learn that the packhouse was always buzzing with activity. From warriors training to the kitchen staff bustling about, there was never a dull moment. Sophie had insisted on giving me a tour of the pack today, and while I was nervous, I couldn’t deny a flicker of excitement at the chance to see more of the place.“Ready for your grand debut?” Sophie teased as I joined her in the foyer. She had Logan balanced on her hip, and Lily was securely strapped to her chest in a carrier.“I wouldn’t call it a debut,” I muttered, adjusting the light jacket I’d thrown over my shoulders. “It’s more like... a soft introduction.”Sophie grinned. “Call it whatever you want. You’ll do great.”As we stepped outside, the sun bathed the pack’s grounds in a warm glow. Wolves of all ages were scattered around, either training or chatting in groups. Some paused to look our way, offering curious glances or polite nods.“They’re already warming to you,” Sophie whispered, nudging me.I smiled a
I woke the next morning to the sound of birds chirping outside my window. The packhouse felt quieter now, the hum of the previous night’s celebrations replaced by a calm stillness. As I stretched, my thoughts lingered on the twins. Their small hands, their innocent giggles—they’d made me feel something I hadn’t felt in years. But the Alpha... Jake. He was a puzzle I couldn’t piece together. His coldness was a shield, a barrier so firmly in place it felt like a tangible wall between us. I wasn’t naive. Losing his mate must’ve broken him in ways I couldn’t fathom, but his indifference toward me stung more than I cared to admit. I needed coffee. Badly. Sliding out of bed, I threw on a hoodie and leggings and made my way downstairs. The kitchen in the packhouse was massive, with sleek countertops and polished appliances that gleamed in the sunlight streaming through the windows. I figured I’d sneak in, grab my coffee, and retreat back to my room unnoticed. But, of course, nothin
The morning sun streamed through the sheer curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. For a moment, I lay there, cocooned in the unfamiliar bed, hoping the events of the previous day had been a bizarre dream. But the ache in my chest and the distant murmur of voices beyond my door confirmed otherwise. This was real—I was the new Luna of this pack. The idea still felt foreign, like trying to wear shoes a size too small.I rolled out of bed, my hair a tangled mess again despite Sarah’s efforts yesterday. My thoughts wandered to her, no doubt thrilled to have me out of her house. She’d sent over my clothes early this morning, which had been neatly hung in the spacious walk-in closet. My stepmother’s eagerness to see me gone still gnawed at me. Why had she been so insistent? Was it just her usual disdain for me, or was there something more?Don’t overthink it, Ayla, I told myself as I pulled on a simple white blouse and dark jeans. Today was the introduction ceremony—another step in thi
The car ride to the packhouse felt like a funeral procession, slow and suffocating. My stepmother, Sarah, sat beside me, preening as if *she* were about to be named Luna. She’d spent the entire morning fussing over me, brushing out my wild hair until it gleamed and forcing me into a pale blue dress that clung too tightly to my figure. “You look fine,” she said, not glancing up from her phone. “Just...try not to embarrass me when we get there.” I bit back a retort, my hands clenching in my lap. It wasn’t worth arguing. Nothing ever was with her. When we arrived, the packhouse loomed ahead, its stone facade both grand and imposing. There was something about it—something that made my pulse quicken. I couldn’t explain it, but as soon as I stepped out of the car, a strange sensation washed over me, like I belonged here. Then, the voice came. “Protect them.”It was clear as day, ringing in my head like a bell. I froze, my breath hitching. “What are you doing?” Sarah snapped, her
AYLA'S POVI watched from the window as Jonas and Lydia walked down the driveway, their figures fading into the soft glow of twilight. My stepmother, Sarah, stood at the doorway, waving them off with that practiced, sugary smile she always wore around guests. The moment the car disappeared, the smile dropped, and I knew what was coming. The only thing Sarah hated more than me staying in her house was the burden I represented. My father had died just a few months ago, and already, she was itching to be rid of me. “Ayla,” she called, her voice thin and edged with impatience. I stayed silent, gripping the edge of the curtain. How had it come to this? How had my life unraveled so completely? It wasn’t like I didn’t know. I’d been cursed—or at least, that’s what everyone whispered behind my back. The day I met Ashton was supposed to have been the happiest day of my life. I remembered it like it was yesterday. --- --- ---It was the Jacaranda Festival, the streets alive with mus
PART 2The sun filtered through the trees, casting golden rays over the pack’s main courtyard. Laughter echoed in the air—soft, light, and innocent. It came from Logan and Lily, my twins, as they toddled around, supervised by Sophie, their aunt and my sister. She knelt by the fountain, encouraging them to walk toward her with outstretched arms.Logan, always the more adventurous of the two, took shaky steps forward, his tiny legs determined to conquer the small patch of grass. Lily, quieter and more cautious, crawled her way toward Sophie, her little eyes focused and wide with wonder.Watching them, my heart twisted. They were so full of life, so blissfully unaware of the gaping hole in our family. A year had passed since Priscilla died...since she gave everything to protect them.I leaned against the porch railing, cradling a mug of coffee that had gone cold. My chest ached—not from exertion, but from carrying the weight of a shattered hear